Article Posted on : - Jul 09, 2010

Royal Australian Air Force’s C-130 Hercules. Australian DoD photo

SYDNEY (BNS): The latest rotation of the Royal Australian Air Force’s C-130 Hercules detachment to the Middle East has been recognised by the Acting Chief of Air Force, Air Vice Marshal Geoff Brown.

Air Vice Marshal Brown said the 37 members of the detachment returning to Sydney Friday and last week provided support to Operation slipper and Kruger during their deployment.

“Their flexibility, adaptability and dedication to duty under difficult circumstances have contributed significantly to effective operations in the Middle East, particularly in Afghanistan.”

“The conduct of the team has enhanced the ADF’s reputation as a capable and professional military force. Every member of the team should be justifiably proud of their achievements,” he said.

The detachment mainly from RAAF Base Richmond completed 133 missions involving 349 sorties, lifting 6,924 passengers and approx. 1, 170 metric tonnes of cargo, the Australian DoD said in a release.

Air Vice Marshal Brown paid special tribute to the maintainers and administration staff who worked tirelessly to maintain the Australian aircraft and the detachment at a high state of readiness during their deployment.

“The commitment of the C-130 detachments personnel to maintain their aircraft in such a high state of readiness is indicative of their professionalism and dedication to their task,” he said.

“Their efforts have ensured the Australian C-130 detachment is an integral part of the ISAF operations.”

Among the other tasks the detachment provided support to VIP visits and numerous short notice missions including the movement of over 400 Afghan National Army soldiers. The next C-130 detachment has begun flight operations in the Middle East.